Short Answer 
The texts by Sonia Nazario highlight the urgent struggles of immigrants and refugees, showcasing a central theme of their suffering. They differ in genre, with “Enrique’s Journey” using narrative storytelling and vivid imagery, while “Children of the Drug Wars” employs persuasive language to invoke urgency. Understanding these techniques enhances appreciation of her message and intent.
Step 1: Identify the Central Message
Both texts by Sonia Nazario address the same critical issue: the profound suffering of immigrants and refugees along with their urgent need for assistance. This shared theme forms the foundation of her work, illustrating the struggles faced by vulnerable populations. Understanding this central idea is essential for a deeper appreciation of the author’s intent and the significance of her narratives.
Step 2: Distinguish Between the Genres
The two texts differ in genre, which impacts the techniques used by Nazario. “Enrique’s Journey” is a biographical account that employs narrative storytelling filled with vivid imagery to engage readers emotionally. In contrast, “Children of the Drug Wars” is an article that focuses on persuasive language, using strong connotations to stimulate a sense of urgency and action among readers. This distinction highlights how genre shapes the presentation and effectiveness of the message.
Step 3: Analyze the Techniques Used
Nazario employs different writing techniques in her texts to enhance her themes. In “Enrique’s Journey”, she uses figurative language, creating powerful imagery that immerses the reader in Enrique’s experiences. Alternatively, in “Children of the Drug Wars”, she uses emotive language to provoke a response from the audience, urging them to consider their role in helping refugees. Recognizing these techniques is crucial for understanding how each text communicates its message.